GM to export Wuling mini-vans under Chevy brand

Shanghai, August 13 (Gasgoo.com) General Motors said today that it will sell mini-commercial vehicles made by SAIC-GM-Wuling, one of its joint ventures in China, to emerging markets in North Africa, South America and the Middle East, media reported.

GM and its Chinese partners have signed deals to export the Wuling N200 and N300 series of vehicles and sell them under the Chevrolet brand through GM's distribution networks in those regions. The first shipment of 150 Chevrolet N200 series vehicles was scheduled to depart from the port of Guangzhou today.

The vehicles are made by SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile Co., which is GM's commercial vehicle venture in China with SAIC Motor (owning 50.1%) and Liuzhou Wuling Auto. GM currently owns 34% of the venture. SAIC-GM-Wuling began exporting the N200 series to Peru in July 2008 as the Chevrolet N200.

"This is an important example of how the new General Motors Company is leveraging our global resources at the local level," said Kevin Wale, president and managing director for GM's China operations.

GM has been seeking to increase its holding in the booming commercial vehicle venture. Reportedly, GM has secured an initial deal to take over Wuling Auto's 15.9% stake in the venture for roughly 300 million yuan ($43.90 mln).

The U.S. auto giant also operates a passenger car venture in Shanghai with SAIC, making Buick, Chevrolet and Cadillac models. Yesterday, GM sold its 1 millionth vehicle in China this year.